Lincoln: Another idea occurred to me which is that cell phones have perpetuated a sense of entitlement to somebody's time. You can rightfully expect to get somebody if you call their cell. And if they don't answer their cell, it can be assumed that the person purposefully didn't want to talk to you. Whether this assumption is right or wrong, the impression is still there. And if somebody continually doesn't answer your call, it can easily be perceived as a slight against you. And even if it's explained away with answers like "I didn't have my phone with me" or "it was turned off" an opinion is formed, either they are avoiding you or they're neglectful and absent-minded. So having a cell phone opens you up to judgement and accountability. Which is either good or bad. Depending on which side of the coin you fall.